Tension rods inserted into the roof prevent the structure from buckling. Isometric diagram – click for larger imageFloor plan – click for larger imageSection – click for larger image The studio worked with engineering group Arup Japan on the structural design of the project. Air drawn in through pits below the building circulates through grates in the white tiled floor and is pulled out by a ventilation system positioned between the wooden and glass structure to maintain cool interior temperatures. The entrance to the building is through a steel-framed doorway under a wooden porch inserted between the existing temple building and the concrete extension. Furumori Koichi Architectural Design Studio added the 335-square-metre Myoenji Columbarium – a vault used to store cremation urns – to a Japanese temple in Fukuoka prefecture. Randomly placed wooden columns, with a diameter of 25 centimetres, push through the latticework to a glass rooftop supported by a steel framework and thick wooden joists. The wooden framework comprises four layers of pale timber that create both a structural and decorative ceiling over the space. Related story: Kuri at Chushinji Temple by Katsuhiro Miyamoto AssociatesThe Kyushu-based office topped the reinforced concrete extension with a glass roof that lets light pass through the timber latticework into a minimalist interior space to give a «unique and impressive atmosphere.»
«In general, the Columbarium is mainly used during limited periods, and visitors stay only short time during daytime hours,» said the studio. «The challenge was to maintain the room temperature while having direct daylight through the glazed roof,» said the architects.
